Magnolia State News

(Jackson, Mississippi) Governor Tate Reeves, Attorney General Lynn Fitch, Commissioner Sean Tindell, and Commissioner Mike Chaney today hosted the Governor’s Public Safety Awards ceremony to honor five public safety leaders ho have gone above and beyond the call of duty to protect Mississippians. 

“Everyday, public safety leaders across the state selflessly serve to protect us all,” said General Lynn Fitch. “And they do not get nearly the recognition they deserve. Today, we want to show our appreciation to these heroes by celebrating them in the company of their peers. I am grateful for their service and dedication to seeking justice and making Mississippi a safer place for everyone.

”Governor Reeves posthumously honored Bay St. Louis Police Department's Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe with the Governor’s Medal of Valor for First Responder of the Year. 

“The single greatest sacrifice one can make is to lay their life down to save that of another. It is the ultimate act,” said Governor Tate Reeves.“Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe put on the badge every day to protect and serve the people of Bay St. Louis. And behind that badge, was the heart of a hero. I was honored to posthumously award them the Mississippi Medal of Valor.

"General Fitch awarded D. Christopher Daniel, of the 2nd Judicial District of Mississippi, with the Prosecutor of the Year award. 

“Good prosecution does not just come from the mind,” said General Fitch.“ But also from the heart. Each case involves a criminal act that has touched someone’s life. While Chris has a tremendous skillset and track record in the courtroom, including more than four dozen pedophile convictions, Chris’ empathy and compassion are what set him apart as a prosecutor. He is dedicated to not only achieving justice, but to also helping victims find closure, and Mississippi is fortunate to have someone of such integrity serving the people. 

”Commissioner Tindell recognized Anthony Hill, of the Tupelo Police Department, as the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. 

“Deputy Chief Anthony Hill has gone above and beyond to establish relationships to those in his department and the citizens he’s made the promise to protect,” said Commissioner Sean Tindell.“ I was honored to award Deputy Chief Hill for the great work he’s done. Thank you for your service to your department and the citizens of Tupelo, Mississippi.” Commissioner Chaney recognized Clay Willingham, of the Horn Lake Fire Department, as Firefighter of the Year. 

“Firefighter Clay Willingham has been with the Horn Lake Fire Department for almost ten years. He is assigned to the Horn Lake Heavy Rescue Unit, which performs all rescue operations within the District,” said Commissioner Chaney. “Clay is a dedicated public servant who never hesitates to place himself in grave danger in order to rescue an individual in distress. Being a Firefighter is not a job, it is a calling, and Clay is a shining example of what it means to live a life of sacrifice and service to others.”

Original source can be found here